Master of Cultural Material Conservation
Coursework and Minor Thesis
Course code: D15AA
INTRODUCTION
This Masters program provides students with a professional qualification in cultural material conservation. It is the only one of its kind in Australia and the region, combining both the theory and practice of cultural material conservation. The course emphasises the philosophical, intellectual and scientific aspects of cultural material conservation, and draws on the combined expertise of staff of the Centre, the Arts and Science Faculties, and the Ian Potter Museum of Art.
The program is aimed at students who wish to undertake specialist training in conservation of cultural material for professional qualification purposes. The course does not necessarily lead to higher degree study, however high achieving students may qualify for entry to research higher degrees.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
The prerequisite for entry into the program is an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline area with at least an H2B (70%) level average in relevant subjects. An equivalent of 25 points of university level Chemistry would be considered an advantage.
Students who elect to exit after completing 100 points of the program, including the thesis, may be eligible for the award of Postgraduate Diploma. It is not anticipated that the Postgraduate Diploma would provide students with a professional qualification in conservation. Completion of the course with thesis may provide a pathway to higher degree research programs (MA and PhD) where the thesis is judged to be of sufficient merit.
Holders of an undergraduate degree in cultural materials conservation, including at least 25 points of undergraduate level Chemistry, and a minimum of two years documented professional experience working as a conservator, may receive an exemption from the first 50 - 100 points of study, depending on the nature and extent of their previous professional experience and training.
Applicants who receive an exemption of 100 points will enter the one year program.
Applicants seeking exemption on these grounds must provide a Curriculum Vitae (CV) for assessment with their application.
Applicants require an overall English language score of not less that IELTS 7.0, with a minimum score on each band of not less than 6.0 (See the University's English language requirements).
A high degree of manual dexterity and accurate colour vision is also required.
The Selection Committee may conduct interviews and tests and call for referee reports and employer references to elucidate any of the matters referred to above.
Qualifications for entry must have been acquired within the last ten years preceding the year for which entry is sought.
For the 200 point program:
- Completion of an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline area with at least an H2B (70%) level average in relevant subjects. Completion of study equivalent to 25 points of university level chemistry would be considered an advantage.
For the 150 point program:
- Completion of a three year undergraduate degree in cultural material conservation or equivalent with at least a H2B (70%) level average in relevant subjects, at least two years of full-time documented professional work experience as a conservator or equivalent. Completion of study equivalent to 25 points of university level chemistry would be considered an advantage.
For the 100 point program:
- Completion of a three year undergraduate degree in cultural material conservation or equivalent with at least a H2B (70%) average in relevant subjects, at least five years of documented professional work experience as a conservator. Completion of study equivalent to 25 points of university level chemistry would be considered an advantage.
Applicants are required to show evidence of manual dexterity either through either a folio presentation or by reference and will be required to submit the results of a colour vision test at the time of application. The Selection Committee may conduct interviews and tests and call for referee reports and employer references to elucidate any of the matters referred to above.
COURSE INFORMATION
Course co-ordinator: Marcelle Scott
Course objectives:
Students who complete the Master of Cultural Material Conservation will:
- develop a sound knowledge and understanding of cultural material conservation principles, methodologies and best practice standards;
- gain an understanding of the role of cultural material in the economic, social and cultural wellbeing of individuals, communities and nations;
- be equipped to contribute to national and international debates, protocols and conventions relevant to cultural material conservation;
- be informed advocates for cultural material conservation and play a leadership role within the sector, actively engaging in critical policy issues;
- develop an appreciation of cultural diversity, community sensitivities and a changing social context to the scientific and historical paradigms that exist within the cultural heritage and conservation sectors;
- develop critical and analytical skills and methods, and a cross disciplinary understanding and approach, to the identification and resolution of conservation issues.
In addition to the above, graduates will attain specific professional skills so that when solving conservation problems or applying preventive conservation measures they will:
- be able to demonstrate a thorough understanding of conservation principles, ethics and methods;
- have a high level of knowledge of the history, technology and deterioration processes of the material within their major specialisation;
- be able to accurately identify the causes of conservation problems;
- competently and independently develop, communicate and apply conservation methodologies that are scientifically and technically sound, ethical, and consistent with cultural contexts and community needs;
- have a strongly developed sense of professional and ethical responsibility for cultural heritage and an awareness of the moral and legal responsibilities of professional practice.
Course intake: February (semester one) and July (semester two)
Applications close: 1 November (February intake) and 30 May (July intake). Late applications may be accepted, subject to the availability of places.
COURSE STRUCTURE
One year program
Duration: 1 year full time or up to 4 years part time.
As for the second 100 points of the two year program (below).
Two year program
Duration: 2 years fulltime/up to 6 years part time.
The two year program is designed for holders of an undergraduate degree wishing to gain a professional qualification in cultural material conservation.
Holders of a three year undergraduate degree in cultural materials conservation and at least two years full-time documented professional experience working as a conservator, may be eligible to complete the 18 month or 12 month program, depending on the nature and extent of their previous professional experience and training.
Applicants wishing to be considered for entry to the 18 or 12 month programs on these grounds must provide a Curriculum Vitae (CV) for assessment with their application.
First 100 points (the first year of the two year program)
4 compulsory subjects
4 elective subjects
Total 100 points - subjects are 12.5 points each, unless indicated otherwise
Students wishing to gain a professionally recognised qualification in cultural material conservation should follow a recommended subject pathway that meets with the industry accreditation standard. The course coordinator will discuss suitable pathways with the students prior to enrolment.
The following is a typical recommended pathway:
Year 1, Semester 1
108 444 Conservation Professional Practices
108 446 Introduction to Materials and Techniques
108 449 Conservation Materials Chemistry (will be offered in 2010 under new subject code 108-400)
108 451 Technical Examination and Documentation
Year 1 Semester 2
108 445 RESPECT
108 447 Preventive Conservation
108 448 Conservation Assessment and Treatment 1
108 450 Analytical Chemistry In Conservation
Year 2 Semester 1
108 541 Conservation Assessment and Treatment 2 ( a double unit)
108 540 Materials and Techniques of Artefacts
Year 2 Winter Semester (intensive)
108 539 Conservation Intensive
Year 2 Semester 2
108 543 Conservation Minor Thesis (mid year entry)
108 542 Conservation Internship
108 544 Conservation Minor Thesis (year long)
Core Subject Summaries
Year 1 Semester 1
108-444 Conservation Professional Practices
This subject introduces students to the ethical issues, cultural considerations, policy framework and the economic environment that inform conservation practice.
108-451 Technical Examination and Documentation
Areas of study in this subject include visual examination using normal and ultraviolet light, photography, infrared reflectography, stereomicroscopy and x-radiography. Sampling methods and microscopic identification of pigments, fibres and other materials are studied.
108-446 Introduction To Materials and Techniques
The subject examines the history and manufacture of traditional and modern materials, their properties and behaviour, and the processes of their chemical and physical deterioration.
108-449 Conservation Materials Chemistry*
The subject deals with the physical- organic chemistry of cultural heritage items and of products and formulations used in all aspects of conservation. It examines the relationship between the chemical structure, properties, and uses of solvents, detergents, adhesives, consolidants, paints, plastics, fibres, stabilisers, emulsifiers and their interaction with cultural heritage objects. Topics including surface colloid chemistry, organic chemistry, polymer science, deterioration and oxidative ageing are covered.
*Will be offered in 2010 under new subject code 108-400
Year 1 Semester 2
108-448 Conservation Assessment And Treatment 1
This subject introduces the current philosophy, ethics, materials, procedures and techniques that are used in the practical conservation of artefacts. Students develop and carry out minor treatment programs on selected objects.
108-447 Preventive Conservation
This subject examines the physical and environmental causes of deterioration of cultural material, and how these can be mitigated. Areas of study include biological attack, chemical pollutants, light exposure, fluctuations and extremes of relative humidity and temperature, physical stresses, vandalism, natural and human caused disasters.
108-445 Respect
In this subject students explore issues relating to the preservation of culture. Students engage with individual guest lecturers who have extraordinary or senior cultural expertise and knowledge, and who lead students through the complexity of issues relating to context, disruption, authenticity, legal standing, development, reinvention, identity and minority status. Of particular focus are cultures that relate to the Australian, Asian and the Pacific Nations.
108-450 Analytical Chemistry In Conservation
The subject builds upon the students' knowledge gained in 100-449 Conservation Materials Chemistry. It covers the use of analytical techniques relevant to the conservation of cultural heritage, including microchemical testing, mass spectrometry, atomic absorption and emission spectroscopy. Students learn to devise appropriate testing regimes, prepare samples, undertake analysis and manage analytical quality.
Year 2 Semester 1
108-540 Materials And Techniques Of Artefacts
This subject builds upon the subject 100-446 Introduction to Materials and Techniques. Students focus on their chosen field of specialisation, allowing a more detailed study of the history and manufacture of traditional and modern materials, their properties and behaviour, and more complex chemical and physical deterioration processes.
108-541 Conservation Assessment And Treatment 2
This double unit subject builds on the subject 100-448 Conservation Assessment and Treatment 1. Students undertake more complex assessment, documentation and conservation treatment of artefacts in their field of specialisation.
Year 2 Semester 2
108-543 Conservation Minor Thesis
The student proposes an original research topic that contributes to existing bodies of conservation knowledge. The student then initiates and conducts an involved program of primary research requiring interdisciplinary skills and knowledge. With minimal direction from an academic supervisor, the student conducts the research, and produces a critical research report.
108-542 Conservation Internship
In this subject students arrange and undertake a placement in a Conservation Department or practice, which deals directly in the conservation of materials of their specialisation. They work under the guidance of a senior conservator within the work place. Students carry out a set program of conservation research and/or treatment involving complex decision-making and the application of high-level skills. During the internship an academic supervisor is available for consultation and advice.
The course is fee paying. Information about Course Fees is available from the Future Students website
FEE HELP is a loans scheme for Australian students enrolled in postgraduate coursework programs applies, although you would need to investigate this with regard to your own personal circumstances.
APPLICATIONS
Applications to study at The University Of Melbourne are handled centrally at the Faculty of Arts. Applications are via the SIS online system.
General information for future students can be found on the Arts Faculty Future Students website.
Information for international students can be found on the Arts Faculty International website.